5. How does IVF treatment work?
Preparation
Prior to beginning an IVF treatment cycle, both parties (if applicable) will first undergo an initial assessment. Cycle monitoring could also be included. Patients will be advised on treatment preparation, including any medications, during this early stage.
Ovarian Stimulation
Each patient’s stimulation can look different depending on various factors. Generally, at the start of the menstrual cycle (referred to as “Day 1”), the patient will receive daily injections of follicle-stimulating hormones (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) for approximately 8 -14 days to stimulate the ovaries and create multiple eggs.
Egg Retrieval
The egg retrieval is a procedure in which doctors insert a speculum into the vagina to clean the cervix, then, using an ultrasound technique, the follicles in the ovary will be located prior to the collection of eggs and follicular fluid. The procedure takes about 20 minutes and is often accompanied by a sedative or local anesthetic.
Sperm Sample
On the same day of the egg retrieval, a sperm sample is required. This is provided by your partner or pre-arranged sperm donor.
Fertilization
After the eggs are extracted from the ovaries, they will be fertilized with the sperm sample provided. The fertilized eggs are then placed in an incubator for 5 days to develop into a mature embryo known as a blastocyst. At this stage, the blastocyst can be transferred to the patient’s uterus or a gestational carrier for implantation and potential pregnancy. If there are multiple blastocysts or if you plan to do a frozen embryo transfer, they can be safely frozen for future transfer.
Embryo Transfer
When your body and embryos are ready for implantation, embryo transfer will take place. The embryo transfer takes about 10 minutes and occurs three to five days after the egg retrieval. The procedure entails inserting a speculum, cleansing your cervix, and placing the embryo in the upper portion of your uterus using an embryo transfer catheter.
Pregnancy Test
A pregnancy test will be administered about two weeks after the procedure to determine if you are successfully pregnant, and an ultrasound will be performed to ensure that an embryo has been successfully implanted in the uterus.
